Saturday, December 6, 2008

Dalai Lama addresses European Parliament

The Dalai Lama addressed approximately 600 members of European Parliament today during a Plenary Session in Brussels. The Dalai Lama spoke on human values and the fate of Tibet. Commenting on European countries' relations with China, the Dalai Lama said that while it is important to maintain close ties, "if you are a true friend you will make clear your friend's faults".

A copy of his prepared statement that was distributed to members can be found below.

“Non-violence is a term I had to coin in order to bring out the root meaning of…‘Ahimsa’. It is the soul force or the power of Godhead with us…therefore; it can never mean passivity…Non-violence demands infinite courage, such a courage that surpasses the bravery of the soldier.”